96 Taurus Duratec (component location)

Hello all! I am an aspiring auto mechanic. I Have a problem with the location of the speed sensor on an automatic transmission. There is a sensor on the middle top of the transmission but it does not match any of the speed sensors from autozone. Without removing a bunch of stuff can anyone tell me where the speed sensor is located?

Also on a side note: What is the name of the white plastic stabilizing type of bar that goes right in behind the front tire? It goes from top to bottom and it has come apart at the seams and is no longer stabilizing anything!

I would greatly appreciate help in these two fields.

The vehicle speed sensor is located under a retangular shield with a 2-wire connector at rear center of engine compartment, mounted on the transaxle.

Per the factory service manual:
1. Raise and suitably support vehicle. Refer to «Section 00-02».
2. Remove dual converter Y-pipe from exhaust system. Refer to «Section 09-00».
3. Disconnect vehicle speed sensor electrical connector.
4. Remove VSS shield from VSS.
5. Remove VSS retaining bolt and VSS from transaxle.
6. Remove retainer clip and speedometer gear from VSS.

I believe the white part you are referring to is the stabilizer bar link kit.

-Rod